On the concept of virtual and digital identity

Abstract

Abstract: This paper starts from the position that identity represents a set of relatively permanent, i.e., long-term determinants that relate to or can be associated with an individual or a social group and are most often recognized as awareness of the long-term continuity of personal or collective experience. Based on that, we can talk about personal and social identities. The contemporary moment is marked by identity pluralism (professional, edu- cational, ethnic, religious, sexual, gender, generational, etc.). One of its new forms, which is associated with the accelerated scientific and technological development and especially the emergence of digital technologies, is virtual and digital identity. These identities also refer to individuals and social groups, but also extend to different organizations and products. They are formed in the online environment and consist of digital records, on the basis of which a special set of characteristics is built – from them, a unique identity is derived, making sense both in personal or collective identification, as well as in legal and business relations. The aim of this paper is to point to the concept of virtual and collective identities and their importance at the contemporary social moment.